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Key Takeaways
Burlington anchors Vermont's small but focused tech scene, led by GlobalFoundries' semiconductor fab and Dealer.com's automotive tech operations
Burlington-area CS salaries average $108,636, competitive for New England, with a lower cost of living than Boston
Hakia Research 2026
University of Vermont ranks #1 with a 91% graduation rate and is the state's only institution offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral CS degrees
In-state tuition is $16,280/yr; UVM also serves as the primary CS research hub in the state
Vermont CS graduates earn a $98,760 median salary, though tuition averages $40,608/yr due to the state's private-college-heavy landscape
Six of eight bachelor's programs are at private institutions; careful ROI analysis matters here
Community College of Vermont offers the most affordable entry at $6,720/yr with transfer pathways to UVM and Vermont State University
Vermont State University ($9,984/yr) is the only other public bachelor's option in the state
Champlain College and Norwich University both hold CAE-CDE cybersecurity designations, an advantage for security-focused students
Middlebury College ranks #2 overall (score 76.5) for students who can afford its $64,800/yr tuition
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Vermont Computer Science programs
We rank 12 accredited computer science programs in Vermont using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Are Computer Science Degree Programs in Vermont Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in Vermont
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in Vermont by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Computer Science Programs in Vermont
Program Landscape
Vermont offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in computer science, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Community College of Vermont, Landmark College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Vermont offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $35,505/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $54,318 in Vermont.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Vermont's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among computer science schools in Vermont, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their computer science degrees in Vermont.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in Vermont
Program Landscape
Vermont ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science education, with 8 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 6 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Vermont, Middlebury College, Champlain College, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Vermont computer science programs earn a median salary of $83,946, 14% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $9,984 to $64,800 annually, with an average of $44,845/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 91%, with the highest reaching 91%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Vermont's leading technology employers. For students seeking computer science degrees in Vermont, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Saint Michael's College | Colchester, VT | Private nonprofit | $48,950 | 73% | 72.2 |
| #7 | Landmark College | Putney, VT | Private nonprofit | $66,540 | 43% | 68.2 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in Vermont
Program Landscape
Vermont offers 1 master's degree programs in computer science, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Vermont, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Vermont earn a median salary of $98,760, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $16,280/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Vermont's computer science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in Vermont
Program Landscape
Vermont is home to 1 doctoral programs in computer science, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Vermont are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Vermont PhD holders earning a median of $123,450, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Vermont programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing computer science degrees in Vermont, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Computer Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Vermont
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $40,608/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $101,520/year |
| Community college tuition | $10,152/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $243,648 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $60,912 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in Vermont
State Aid Programs
Vermont residents pursuing computer science degrees have access to multiple layers of financial support. The Vermont Incentive Grant provides need-based funding specifically for Vermont residents attending approved institutions, making it a cornerstone of state-level aid. Students should also complete the FAFSA through (Federal Student Aid) to access federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) remains the gateway to all federal funding, regardless of institution type or program.
Key Programs & Amounts
Many Vermont institutions offering computer science degrees provide institutional scholarships and merit-based aid packages. The (Vermont State Colleges System) administers transfer agreements that help community college students transition affordably to four-year programs, reducing overall costs. Students starting at the Community College of Vermont can leverage these pathways while maintaining financial momentum. Additionally, the (Vermont Incentive Grant) program is administered through the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation, ensuring coordinated support across the state's higher education landscape. Prospective students should contact financial aid offices directly to learn about program-specific scholarships and employer partnerships that may reduce out-of-pocket costs. For comprehensive aid planning, the (College Scorecard) provides institution-specific financial aid and affordability data to help students make informed decisions about their computer science education in Vermont.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, Vermont
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree in Vermont. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Computer Science Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Vermont metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Burlington | $109K |
| Montpelier | $104K |
| Rutland | $99K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Science Graduates in Vermont
Find computer science jobs in Vermont. These major employers across Vermont metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Burlington
VTTransfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in Vermont
State Transfer System
Vermont's transfer system is designed to help seamless academic progression from community colleges to four-year institutions. The Vermont Transfer Agreements provide formal pathways that ensure course credits earned at two-year institutions like Community College of Vermont transfer directly toward bachelor's degrees at Vermont State University and other public colleges (Vermont State Colleges System). These agreements eliminate redundancy and reduce time-to-degree, saving students both time and tuition costs. Students completing associate's degrees in computer science, 18 completions statewide in 2023, are well-positioned to pursue bachelor's degrees with clear articulation agreements in place (IPEDS).
How Transfers Work
Community College of Vermont represents the state's dedicated two-year institution and is a key entry point for transfer-bound students, offering 13 computer science completions and tuition of just $6,720. The Vermont Transfer Agreements specify which computer science courses satisfy requirements at four-year institutions, allowing students to complete foundational coursework affordably before pursuing bachelor's degrees at the University of Vermont, Champlain College, or other institutions. Vermont residents may also access need-based support through the Vermont Incentive Grant at approved institutions. For comprehensive transfer planning, students should consult advisors at Community College of Vermont and review program-specific articulation agreements with destination institutions. Exploring national online computer science programs can provide additional flexibility for working students.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in Vermont?
Industry & Workforce
Vermont offers a strong ecosystem for computer science education with 12 institutions delivering programs across multiple degree levels, from associate's to doctoral degrees (IPEDS). In 2023, Vermont institutions awarded 185 bachelor's degrees, 18 associate's degrees, 8 master's degrees, and 1 doctoral degree in computer science, demonstrating strong institutional commitment to the field. The University of Vermont leads the state with 93 completions, followed by Middlebury College with 45 completions, establishing Vermont as a serious destination for computer science study (IPEDS).
Salary Outlook
Vermont's major employment hubs in Burlington-South Burlington and throughout Chittenden County attract technology talent and innovation. Major employers including the University of Vermont Medical Center and GlobalFoundries create meaningful internship and career opportunities for graduates. For those seeking affordable education, Vermont State University offers tuition at just $9,984, while the University of Vermont provides strong value at $16,280 for in-state students. Prospective students can explore national computer science rankings and salary data to understand return on investment. Related fields like Software Engineering in Vermont and Cybersecurity in Vermont offer complementary pathways for specialized careers.
Computer Science Program Availability in Vermont
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in Vermont
Employment Outlook
Vermont's computer science job market is growing steadily, with opportunities concentrated in key metropolitan areas and regional tech hubs. The Burlington-South Burlington metro area represents the strongest job market in the state, serving as the primary technology employment center. According to BLS State Data, Vermont offers competitive opportunities for computer science professionals across multiple sectors. Major employment centers extend beyond Burlington to include Rutland, Montpelier, and Bennington, creating a distributed network of career opportunities throughout the state. The relatively small but focused tech workforce in Vermont means that graduates from programs like University of Vermont's computer science bachelor's degree often find direct pathways to employment in their region.
Salaries by Metro
Vermont's educational infrastructure supports the job market with 12 institutions offering computer science programs at various levels, including 8 bachelor's-granting institutions and 1 master's program. The state's public institutions maintain affordable tuition, with average in-state costs at $13,132 for four-year programs, making Vermont education accessible for students seeking local careers. Data from IPEDS shows that Vermont institutions completed 185 bachelor's degrees in computer science in 2023, providing a steady pipeline of local talent. Students interested in exploring broader national trends can reference national best computer science programs and affordable options nationally. Vermont's smaller market size compared to tech hubs in California or Texas means that personal networking and direct employer relationships often play crucial roles in career advancement.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Computer Science Programs in Vermont
Online Programs
0 available in Vermont
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Computer Science Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 21
- Median Tuition
- $15,500
- Total Programs
- 89
- Median Tuition
- $40,400
- Total Programs
- 156
- Median Tuition
- $19,000
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
- Total Programs
- 141
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
- Total Programs
- 72
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
- Total Programs
- 36
- Median Tuition
- $10,300
Computer Science Degree Programs in Vermont: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in Vermont?
How much do computer science degree programs cost in Vermont?
What salary can computer science degree graduates earn in Vermont?
Are there online computer science degree programs in Vermont?
What companies hire computer science degree graduates in Vermont?
Is a computer science degree program worth it in Vermont?
How long do computer science degree programs take in Vermont?
What financial aid is available for computer science degree students in Vermont?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Vermont salary and employment data
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.